Ricky Hatton's boxer pal Mickey Helliet pens heartfelt tribute to late star

Ricky Hatton has been mourned as an "exceptional talent" by a close friend following his shock death. The sport and entertainment worlds were left saddened on Sunday when it was revealed the boxing icon had died at the age of 46.

His body was found at his home in Hyde, Greater Manchester, on Sunday - with police releasing a statement confirming there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding his death. Ricky's death sparked a flood of tributes from fans, fellow sport stars and celebrity friends on Sunday.

Boxing manager Mickey Helliet was among those going online to share poignant comments about the tragic star. He worked with Ricky and advised him on managing other boxers and the pair were close friends.

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In a touching Facebook tribute, Mickey wrote: "I was absolutely heartbroken to hear the news this weekend about the death of one of my very good friends Ricky Hatton.

"I remember Rick being an exceptional talent in the amateurs. It didn't seem to matter who he was matched with, he'd not just beat them but absolutely smash them from pillar to post. It was impossible not to be in awe of Ricky the fighting man."

Mickey went on to explain how he was a friend and advisor to the late star. He explained: "After he'd finished boxing, I often used to help him with matching his fighters and always really enjoyed that.

"Over the years I knew him, he became a close friend and our friendship grew way beyond our boxing connection. I have so many brilliant memories of nights out or trips away with Rick."

He continued: "I spoke to him in depth about lots of his problems so I knew life was hard for him and I only wish I could have helped him more. My heartfelt condolences go out to his entire family who are all good people."

The news of Ricky's death reached Mickey while he was preparing to board a flight. He explained: "I'm sitting in an airport departure lounge writing all this with loads of people buzzing around me and I just feel lost, completely sick to my stomach, but this is life."

He wrote: "I'll miss my mate loads. There will only ever be one Ricky Hatton."

Revealing he had been asked to make a statement, Mickey concluded: "I'm really going to miss him. I've had quite a few calls and messages from people asking to speak about Ricky but I couldn't say anymore than what is written here. I'm devastated a top man is gone."

Many others took to social media to share memories of Ricky - and to express their sadness over his death.

Among those paying tribute was Amir Khan, 38, who wrote: "Today we lost not only one of Britain's greatest boxers, but a friend, a mentor, a warrior, Ricky Hatton.

"As fighters, we tell ourselves we're strong - we train, we sweat, we take hits, we get up. But sometimes the hardest fight happens in silence, in the mind. Mental health isn't weakness. It's part of being human. And we must talk about it. We must reach out. We must lean on each other.

"Ricky, thank you for everything. For your fights, your moments of glory, your grit. Thank you for pushing us, showing us what's possible. To everyone reading this: if you're hurting or struggling, you are not alone.

"Talk. Reach out. Because we need more light, more compassion, more understanding. Rest well, Ricky. You’ll always have your place in the ring of our memories."

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